The Granite City Remodeler

VO LU M E 01
The Granite City Remodeler
Coming to Your
neighbor hood!
320.252.4932
www.LutgensCo.com
Designs by Mark Suess,
Built by Lutgen Companies
320.224.0942
what’s inside
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14
Letter From The Editor
An introduction from a seasoned remodeling veteran
The History of Lutgen Companies
How we got here
Kitchens
A place to relax and entertain
Roofing
Not all contractors are created equal
Windows
The exclusive Sunrise Window dealer
Condensation
What it is and why it happens
Building A Better Community
See us in action off the jobsite
8
Get To Know The Crew
Our job is serving you
Bathrooms
Discover the secrets to a successful remodel
Siding
13
Where we got our start
Gutters
A cost effective way to keep things flowing
Additions
When you need more space
Decks
Grab a chair and the grill
18
Screen Porches
Your summer oasis awaits
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
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letter from the editor
Welcome!
Thank you for taking the time to read the first volume of The Granite City Remodeler! Our goal
is to inform and educate you on residential remodeling, as well as introduce you to our company
and our history.
Over the years we have found that anyone who has ever done a remodeling or construction
project can tell you a few things; it wasn’t as easy as they thought it would be and it took longer
than expected.
As a professional remodeler I have often wondered why this has to be the case. We have
worked on every aspect a home has to offer during our 30 plus years in business. Along the way
there have been a lot of lessons learned, some the easy way and some the hard way. It has
resulted in a staff with centuries of experience, allowing us to forecast everything from the timeline
to the unknowns behind the wall. Simply knowing the year your home was built allows many
predictions to be made about your project. That goes for all projects, from replacing the roof to
changing an outlet.
In today’s day and age experience is a must when it comes to remodeling. Over the last 100
years there have been major changes in the way we construct and remodel homes. What may
hold true for a five year old home might be thrown out the window when dealing with a 75 year
old home, and vice versa. For this reason it is always a big help to know what you’re getting into
ahead of time.
As homeowners I think we can all agree that there is something about our home that we would
change. For some it is as simple as replacing that old beat up door with one that’s elegant and
inviting. For the certified remodeling junkies like myself there is always an overwhelming need to
add that personal touch. Whatever the case may be, remodeling is a great way to transform a
house into a home.
Although there are many similarities in every home they are all different in some way, shape, or
form - just like people. By better understanding the home we have the ability to create a healthier
environment for ourselves and our family.
I truly hope you are intrigued,
Enjoy!
Justin Nelson
Owner at Lutgen Companies
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
5
history of Lutgen Companies
John Lutgen loaned $3,000 from
his brother Roger to start his
own siding company. Originally
named “Lutgen Siding Co, Inc.”
Again the workload grows and a
full-time roofing division is
officially formed.
After three years of hard work
John finally has the capital to
invest in tools. Pump poles for
scaffolding were one of his
major purchases.
To improve job site efficiency
John invested in a bag-style cell
phone. The horn on his truck
would actually beep when he
was getting called. This was also
the year he purchased his first
new truck.
Due to the amount of work a
full-time seamless gutter
division is formed. Cordless tools
also start replacing the corded
ones.
Due to demand and amount of
work a full time window division
was established. Business is
moved to its current location.
1983
1986
1989
1992
1995
1998
After numerous attempts John
retires. His son Sean and fellow
co-owners take over the
business operations.
Sean Lutgen moves into a
full-time management position.
Workforce continues to expand.
Seamless siding machine is
purchased to expand the siding
division.
“Lutgen Siding Co, Inc.” is
re-named “Lutgen Companies”
to better incorporate all of the
services we offer.
John decides to split ownership
of the company. Sean, Justin,
Luke, and Jerry are made
co-owners. Remodeling division
goes full-time.
Despite the recession business
expands, growing to nearly 30
employees.
20 01
20 05
2007
2008
2011
2014
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
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kitchens
THE KITCHEN
is one of the most frequently
used rooms in the home. Cooking, eating,
entertaining, and doing homework all take place in
the kitchen. Since so many of our day to day activities
take place in this one room it is not surprising that the
average person will spend 1 to 3 years of their life in
the kitchen. For this reason, kitchen remodeling is the
#1 item on many peoples honey-do-list.
With over 30 years in business the team at Lutgen
Companies has the experience and tools necessary
to turn your dream kitchen into a reality.
As remodeling a kitchen can be one of the most
complex projects to undertake we
answered some common questions and
welcome any others you may have.
How long does a kitchen remodel take?
The planning phase alone can takes weeks and
sometimes months to complete. After all of the
details are worked out the average kitchen
remodel takes four to six weeks to complete
from start to finish.
Will our kitchen be functional during the
remodel?
During a full-scale kitchen remodel you will not
be able to use your kitchen for the majority of
the project. Many homeowners set up their
fridge and microwave in another portion of the
house during the project. Going out to eat,
ordering in, and grilling are also very common
during the renovation.
How do we go about getting our kitchen designed?
Lutgen companies is a full service remodeler. We will design,
plan, and build your remodel from start to finish. This includes
meeting with the cabinet maker, plumbers, and electricians to
come up with a design that fits your style and your budget.
DESIGN
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
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roofing
When our great nation was founded, the
Declaration of Independence stated “All
Men Are Created Equal.” When it comes
to roofing contractors this statement does
not apply. At Lutgen Companies we are a
GAF Certified Master Elite, the highest
certification and training available in the
residential roofing industry. Less than 3
out of every 100 roofing contractors have
been awarded the GAF Master Elite status.
Our Master Elite Certification took us
years to achieve and is perhaps our most
proud accomplishment in our 30 plus
year history. This certification proves that
Lutgen Companies dedication to customer
satisfaction is second to none. We are
proud to be central Minnesota’s leading
residential roofing contractor.
Shingles Featured on Sartell Home: GAF Timberline, Weathered Wood in Color
Shingles Featured on St. Cloud Home: GAF Timberline, Hickory in Color
BEFORE
To Achieve the Master Elite
Status a Contractor Must
Prove their reputation is impeccable
Thank you so
much for the
wonderful job you
did with our new
roof. We were so
happy with the clean
up and the little
time it took. Your
crew was wonderul.
We’ll be telling all
our friends!
•
Have a long standing history
of satisfied homeowners
•
Score 99% or higher on
independent surveys from GAF
•
Have expert factory certified installers that
continually train to ensure top notch quality
•
Serve their local community
on and off the job-site
•
Be financially sound
•
Carry all forms of proper insurance
for the consumers protection
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
11
windows
FOR OVER 30 YEARS Vinyl Replacement
Windows have been the foundation of Lutgen
Companies. Lutgen Companies has a proven track
record of customer satisfaction and professional
installation. As a result Sunrise Windows, an elite
mid-west window manufacturer, hand selected us to be
the exclusive installers of their windows in the Central
Minnesota Area. We have obtained the highest level
of certification available in the Vinyl Replacement
Window industry and continually strive for perfection
in every facet of the window installation process.
Sunrise Windows combine beauty and technology to give you the
most energy efficient and innovative window system available today.
Does Window Condensation
Have You Feeling Mystified?
If you have lived in Minnesota for any period of time
you have probably noticed that the weather and
seasons can change rather abruptly. As the saying
goes:
“If you don’t like the weather,
wait a few minutes”
Your home is affected by these changes as much as
you are, if not more. Condensation build up on your
windows and glass doors is a common sight in
Minnesota. This condensation is not to be confused
with what is known as a “Seal Failure.”
A Seal Failure is when the bond that holds your
panes of glass together is broken. When this
happens the gas leaks out and air is allowed in,
which forms condensation and often a “cloud”
between the panes of glass. To tell if you have a Seal
Failure or a condensation problem run your finger
on the glass. If your finger is wet and/or you can see
a path where you ran your finger you have a
condensation problem. If this is not the case, it
means you have a Seal Failure and you should have
your glass replaced. If multiple windows have the
same issue at once it is more likely to be a
condensation issue than a Seal Failure.
The condensation that forms on your windows and
doors is a result of warm humid air meeting a cold
surface. This can happen when it is humid outside
and the air conditioning is running, but is more
common in the winter when your house is being
heated. Humidity is impossible to prevent entirely as
it comes from everyday living. Cooking, laundry,
and showers are just a few things that add to the
humidity level.
WHEN YOU ARE EXPERIENCING CONDENSATION ISSUES THERE
ARE A FEW DIFFERENT WAYS TO FIX THE PROBLEM:
• Open the windows and let out some of the humidity that has built up inside
• In the winter keep your blinds cracked at night and open during the day
• Ensure your bath and kitchen fans are vented properly, then be sure to run them periodically
• Check that appliances such as your clothes dryer actually vent to the outside
• Run a de-humidifier to take moisture out of the air
• Monitor and control the level of your humidifier
The first place condensation shows up is typically on
your windows, but it can form on any surface in your
home. It is important to prevent condensation from
forming as it can cause mold growth and structural
damage over time. By following a few simple tips you
can emerge from the mist victorious!
Visit our window showroom located in Waite Park
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
13
building a better community
Sean and Crew,
Just a note to thank you for another
very professional job. Jerry, Nick and
all the guys are top notch.
At Lutgen Companies we are firm believers that giving back to the community
is a must. Since the beginning it has been our motto and it holds true to this
day. Donating time with the Veterans for Freedom Flight, sponsoring youth
hockey, and hosting a bi-weekly “Get to Know Your Neighbor” cookout were
just a few of our highlights from this past year. We look forward to many
more years of service in the St. Cloud area; on and off the jobsite.
Thank You!!
Thanks for a job well done.
My compliments to the fine
young men who did the work!
get to know the crew
The crew at Lutgen Companies is close knit and many interests are shared. When they are not
at work you will likely find them spending time with their families, riding motorcycles, hunting, or
fishing. To give you a little insight to their personalities we asked them three questions.
1. If you could be a superhero, or have a super power, what would it be?
2. What song would you sing on American Idol?
3. What food could you not live without?
Justin
1. Mind reading - Could
come in handy...
2. Wanted Dead or Alive
by Bon Jovi
Luke
1. Spiderman - I wouldn’t
need a ladder!
2. Brown Eyed Girl
by Van Morrison
Sean
1. To fly - It would be fun
to check out new places
2. Wild Side
by Motley Crue
Jerry
1. Superman - Super
strong and can fly
2. Barbeque Stain
by Tim McGraw
3. I can’t live without tacos
3. I have to have Grandma’s
Chocolate Chip Cookies
3. Pizza is a must have
3. Salmon is one of my
favorites
Krista
Isaac
Nick
Nate
1. Time Manipulation - So
there are always enough
hours in the day
2. Nothin’ But a Good Time
1. Invisibility - Deer hunting
would be so much easier!
2. Joy To The World
1. Ironman - Multiple
powers in one package!
2. Badfish
1. To fly - Then I can find
the ducks and geese
2. America should never
hear me sing!
3. I can’t stop eating
chicken wings
by Poison
3. Potatoes mashed, fried,
and baked!
by Three Dog Night
by Sublime
3. Burgers are the way to
my heart
3. Any type of Mexican
food
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
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bathrooms
Bathroom Remodeling:
Failing to Plan is a Plan to Fail
After 30 plus years of remodeling it has become
apparent that the most important part of the process
is the planning phase. When it comes to planning it is
crucial to address every detail prior to starting your
project for one reason; to keep the schedule moving.
By following these simple steps you can prevent such
issues.
Step 1: CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR
This is by far the most important step. Choose a
contractor that is local, reputable, and makes you feel
confident that you are in good hands. Consult with
your friends and family about who they would
recommend. It may be tempting to go with the guy on
Craigslist, but understand that there are substantial
risks involved. In addition, make sure they are
licensed and that they are going to obtain the
required permits for your project.
For example, if you want a special order tile for a
custom shower you need to be prepared. If you start
demolition on your project before it is ordered and
received you may end up waiting days, weeks, or
even months for it to come in; when this happens you
may be forced to settle for something that you don’t
like as much, or play the waiting game with a
demolished bathroom.
Step 2: DECIDE ON A BUDGET AND TIMELINE
Before you sign anything be sure that you and your
contractor both agree on a budget and timeline that
is realistic for your remodel. Keep in mind there is
always a potential for unforeseen expenses. A good
contractor will identify as many of these potential
unforeseen expenses as possible ahead of time.
Also, they will work with you and your budget to
handle any unexpected surprises that may occur
during your remodel.
Step 3: DESIGN WITHIN YOUR BUDGET
your distributor says your tub will take three weeks to
come in, wait until they confirm it has been delivered
undamaged. The world is filled with humans who
make mistakes; it may take an extra week to be
delivered or arrive damaged. Not having a specific
material when you need it makes progress come to a
screeching halt.
Choose materials and fixtures that fit into the
allowances that you and your contractor have
established. If you want a $500.00 faucet, let your
contractor know so they can include it in the budget.
In your estimate be sure your contractor included an
allowance for the variable aspects of the remodel
such as tile, toilet, vanity, plumbing fixtures, etc. If an
allowance seems low discuss it with your contractor.
If you don’t you could end up spending more than
you planned on as a result of unrealistic allowances.
Step 5: STICK TO THE PLAN
Make your decisions prior to the project start. This
will keep the budget and the timeline on track. If you
absolutely must make a change during the project
talk it over with your contractor. The sooner they
know the better. After deciding to make a change
ask for any additional costs in writing. It is also a
good idea to ask how the change will affect the
project timeline.
Step 6: ENJOY!
Remodeling your home is meant to be a fun and
exciting experience. By choosing an experienced
contractor and creating a detailed plan you’re
setting yourself up for a successful project with
beautiful results that can be enjoyed for many years.
Step 4: ORDER YOUR FIXTURES AND MATERIALS
Confirm that any special order items and all stock
items are available prior to starting your project. If
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
17
siding
IN THE BEGINNING
our name was “Lutgen Siding Co, Inc” and today many people still know us by
that name. In 2007 we changed our name to “Lutgen Companies” to help people recognize that we offer more
services than strictly siding. With that being said, siding remains one of our core services after over 30 years in
business.
Our company was built by skilled
craftsmen with dedication to detail.
They have helped grow our company to
what
it
is
today.
Our
craftsmen
specialize in custom fabrication and
installation
of
exterior
siding
and
cladding. Their experience allows us to
give you the best possible finished
product.
FUN FACT:
On average, our siding installers
have over 16 years of experience
gutters
SEA MLESS ALUMINUM R AIN GUT TERS
are a great addition to any home. Not only are
they aesthetically pleasing, they serve a functional purpose as well. Gutters divert damaging water away from
your homes foundation and landscaping, all the while increasing the life of your siding and windows. Installation
is painless, usually completed in one day or less.
As the Lutgen team designs and installs
your gutter system you will have the
opportunity to choose from many
options. Custom colors, Leaf Free
cover, and tip-up down spouts are just
the beginning! All of our Leaf Free
Gutter Systems are backed by our
lifetime warranty against clogs.
L e a fl ess
Cove r
FUN FACT:
All of our gutters are custom manufactured
on site to fit your home
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
19
additions
BEFORE
The rollercoaster we call life is built as we
go. Our homes are the same way. What
may have been the perfect home five years
ago may be bursting at the seams now that
you have two more kids and a dog running
around. It is not the end of the line,
just time to build more tracks.
BEFORE
Adding an addition is one of the best ways to make your current
home more suitable for you, your family, and your lifestyle. From
bigger kitchens and bathrooms to more bedrooms and living space
all of our additions are custom built to suit your needs. With over 30
years in business and centuries of experience we can make your
addition look as if it has always been there.
BEFORE
DESIGN
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
21
decks
BEFORE
The team at Lutgen Companies is here to guide
you through the deck design and planning
phase; ensuring that the end result is a deck that
suits your needs, and your budget, at the same
time. Whether you want a simple deck off the
dining room, a deck with stairs to the backyard
for the kids, or an ultimate entertaining space
reinforced to support a hot tub, we can do it all.
screen porches
BEFORE
When mid-January hits in Minnesota we often ask
ourselves “why do I live here”. A few short months
later spring and summer roll around. With the
changing of the seasons comes some of the best
weather and most breathtaking views imaginable. Just
be careful when you’re taking that breath not to inhale
any of our flying friends! One way to get outside and
enjoy the weather without being bugged by those
pesky gnats and mosquitoes’ is to relax inside an
enclosed screen room. Whether you need to start from
scratch or want to add on to an existing covered porch
we can make it happen!
www.LutgensCo.com | 320-252-4932
23
RO O FI N G
ADDITIONS
G U T T E RS
K I TC H E N S
SIDING
WINDOWS
BATHROOMS
& MORE!
See more photos and
find more info @ lutgensco.com
or
like us on Facebook
320.252.4932
W W W. L U T G E N S C O.C O M
313 0 C O U N T Y R O A D 13 7 • WA I T E PA R K , M N 5 6 3 8 7